Dicsonia Antarctica Tree Fern. Is The Growth On The Soil Harmful.

Question

I have a dicsonia antarctica tree fern in a pot. It appears to be growing well and has produced fronds since planted in its pot. However the soil has this covering. What is it and is it harmful To the tree fern.

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Answer 1

This is Liverwort. It is not necessarily harmful to the soil. In fact, it can have some benefits. Liverwort helps to retain moisture in the soil and can provide a protective cover for the soil surface. In this case, both will prefer such moist conditions.

I would be sure to feed the container with a complete liquid fertilizer once a month or once every two months or so to avoid competition for nutrients.

These articles will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/tree-ferns/planting-tree-ferns.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/water-plants/liverworts/liverwort-information.htm